Motorists want ‘right to drive’

An independent survey has revealed that, even with driverless cars on the way, the majority of motorists want to retain the right to drive.

IAM RoadSmart – formerly the Institute of Advanced Motorists – conducted a survey of 1,000 British motorists and a separate poll among its 92,000 members and more than 65 per cent want to retain the right to drive.

Those 65 per cent of motorists believe that a human being should always be in control of the vehicle with 53 per cent saying that the focus should be on making drivers safer – not just cars.

Members of IAM RoadSmart welcome the hi-tech advances which are improving vehicle safety, but want to maintain their control of a car – even though autonomous technology will be able to do it for them.

Sarah Sillars OBE, chief executive of IAM RoadSmart, said: “Technological advances that make driving and riding safer for all road users have to be embraced wholeheartedly – but British motorists and our members, do want the right to drive.

“Intelligent cars will deliver a step change in road safety by targeting the human errors we make from time-to-time. At IAM RoadSmart we believe a well-trained driver and an ever-vigilant car is a win-win scenario for the future.

“This technology will also prove to be a major boost for business and keep UK PLC at the very edge of technological advance.

“IAM RoadSmart is the leading specialist in the interaction between human and machine and will play a significant role in this fundamental shift – which will see UK roads the safest, most business friendly and connected in the world.

“The government is due to consult this summer on how the UK can lead the development of autonomous vehicles; we are ready, willing and able to participate fully in this discussion.

“One could see a time when motorists might be restricted to driving on designated roads – and possibly just for pleasure rather than for work or getting from A to B.”

The research comes as IAM RoadSmart celebrates 60 successful years improving driving and riding standards across the country and unveils a ‘new name, new look and a new tone’ to support 21st Century road users for the next 60 years and beyond.

Sarah Sillars said: “We are proud of our heritage – and excited about the future.

“The majority of our members feel that improving driver skills is essential. Nowhere is this truer than in helping drivers to review their skills in line with new technology.